Augusta burn doctor shares tips on firework safety

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Independence Day is Thursday, and many of you are stocking up on fireworks. But, the fun way to celebrate can also be dangerous.

Whether you’re shooting off mortars, roman candles, or even sparklers, it’s important to be aware of the risks and to have a safety system in place before lighting them.

The top-sellers this year at Wacky Wayne’s Fireworks in North Augusta are their artillery mortar shells, known for making a big boom.

These can cause the most severe injuries, but it’s important to take precautions when lighting any kind of firework.

“Really most of the safety rules apply across the board. And if you apply all of them, then it should keep you safe,” said Wacky Wayne’s manager Skip Playford.

First, check your local firework regulations. Then, set up fireworks on a flat and sturdy surface. There should be three roles for three people: safety supervisor, child supervisor, and shooter.

“Establish an area of safety. Have one individual take responsibility for setting off the fireworks, understand that fireworks are associated with tremendous temperatures that can cause thermal injuries,” said Dr. Shawn Fagan, burn surgeon and Chief Medical Officer at the JMS Burn Center at Doctors Hospital.

Dr. Fagan tells us he sees an influx of firework-related injuries during the holiday.

“Hand injuries from people holding onto fireworks or unfortunately fireworks tipping over that can result in injuries throughout the body,” he said. “We’ve seen some devastating injuries associated with them.”

To avoid hurting yourself or your property, soak used fireworks in water. Don’t re-light a “dud” firework. Keep a fire extinguisher or water nearby. And never use fireworks near dry grass, homes, or flammable materials.

With the hot and dry weather conditions we’ve been having lately, taking these precautions is even more crucial.

“Making sure that we’re smart about where the fireworks are being set off. We are having extreme temperatures now so we do want to be not only cognizant of firework related injuries, but also just heat related injuries whether that be that heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” Dr. Fagan said.

He said if you do get burned, pour lukewarm water on the area, put wet gauze on it, and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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